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Launched in 2019, ASCEND is a dynamic, strengths-based, nine-month hybrid professional development program designed for mid-career leaders across all spectrums of higher education who want to enhance their leadership capacity. ASCEND is uniquely guided by AACRAO’s Core Competencies and the Strategic Enrollment Management (SEM) framework, with CliftonStrengths serving as a key tool for personal and professional growth. The program blends immersive cohort learning, coaching, hands-on SEM projects, and skill-building activities to equip you to lead change effectively, optimize enrollment, and elevate the learner experience at your institution.

ASCEND emphasizes applying real-world leadership practice. Scholars consistently report increased confidence, stronger strategic decision-making, and practical application of SEM principles that impact their daily work. The program fosters cohort connections, builds professional networks, and cultivates a supportive learning community, amplifying every participant’s unique strengths.

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ASCEND Learning Objectives

Advance Strategic Enrollment Management Expertise

Participants will gain experience in AACRAO Core Competencies—including change management, holistic and systemic thinking, data interpretation, and collaborative decision-making—to design and implement effective strategic enrollment management plans aligned with institutional goals.

Leverage Personal Strengths for Leadership Excellence

Participants will identify and apply their top CliftonStrengths themes to enhance self-awareness, leadership confidence, and impact within their roles, fostering authentic and strengths-based leadership.

Cultivate Collaborative Leadership Through Cohort Engagement

Participants will build productive peer networks, practice consensus-building, and engage in collective problem-solving within cohort activities and virtual/in-person sessions to expand relational and leadership capacities.

Apply Change Leadership with Strengths-Based Agility

Using insights from CliftonStrengths, participants will enhance adaptability, resilience, and proactive change management skills to successfully lead and sustain institutional transformation in dynamic higher education environments.

Demonstrate Executive Communication and Professional Presence

Participants will develop competency in articulating vision, strategic priorities, and professional brand through coaching and cohort feedback, preparing them to influence across institutional levels and serve as effective change agents.

Drive Real-World Impact via Participant-Led Capstone Project

Participants will collaboratively create and implement a strategic enrollment management initiative that integrates AACRAO competencies with individual strengths, demonstrating applied leadership and operational effectiveness at their institutions.

Program Components

Hybrid Delivery

Participate in approximately 8 hours per month of virtual modules, readings, and interactive sessions designed to fit alongside professional responsibilities.

Expert Coaching

Monthly structured sessions with seasoned SEM leaders focused on refining your strengths and leadership style.

Peer Cohort Engagement

Early and frequent group activities both virtually and in-person to promote collaboration and build strong peer connections.

Capstone Experience

Apply your learning in a strategic enrollment management project that directly supports your institution while developing your leadership competencies.

Expanded Curriculum

Explore emerging areas like AI innovations, executive interviewing, budgeting, data analysis, and adaptive leadership.

Continuous Networking

Build connections at key AACRAO events and through ongoing alumni engagement.

Program Dates

July 2026 – April 2027

Duration
9 months

Time Commitment
2-3 hours per week

Why choose Ascend?

ASCEND empowers you to understand and harness your strengths, drive innovation, and build a professional support system, all while mastering the leadership competencies essential for today’s higher education environment. This program champions effective, connected, and resilient leaders who make lasting institutional and learner-centered impact.

I experienced positive personal and professional growth in a safe, supportive space where I could learn, ask questions, and assess decisions alongside peers.

— Tamika Davis 

My ASCEND experience was incredibly meaningful. It pushed me to reflect, grow, and embrace my leadership voice while building a supportive community passionate about student success.

— Areceli Moreno

ASCEND boosted my confidence in enrollment management and inspired me to aim higher. It offered valuable connections and collaboration that helped me succeed in my capstone project.

— Tony Strode

It was a year of growth where I better understood how my work links to university goals. Connecting with leaders going through similar challenges was one of the biggest takeaways.

— Angi Long

I gained a deeper understanding of my strengths, learned strategic leadership with intention, and feel equipped to make an impact in higher ed. I highly recommend ASCEND to anyone wanting to grow professionally and personally.

— Dr. Tara Kent 

ASCEND is an accelerated bridge that distinguishes itself from other programs that guides leaders chart their professional path by encouraging each to reframe their skills as strengths and engage collaboratively from that lens.

— Johnika Nixon

ASCEND was transformative both professionally and personally. Though I wanted a stronger sense of community, the program enriched my skills and expanded my network for growth.

— Jessika Harris

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What Will You Learn?

The ASCEND curriculum is designed to build on your unique strengths and advance your leadership capacity through future-focused, practical content:

  • SEM Core Concepts and Future Thinking
  • Federal Legislative Advocacy for Enrollment
  • Admissions Recruiting and Faculty Collaboration
  • Financial Aid as a Learner Success Tool
  • Budget Management and Change Leadership
  • Media Training for Enrollment Leaders
  • Retention Strategies and Environmental Scanning
  • ASCENDING Leadership Pathways

Capstone Scholar Experience

Gain hands-on, real-world experience by collaborating in small groups—guided by AACRAO consultants—to develop an implementable Strategic Enrollment Management (SEM) plan. This signature capstone bridges AACRAO Core Competencies with your personal and professional strengths delivering meaningful outcomes for your institution efficiency and elevating your profile
as a strengths-based leader.

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